Meta has removed several AI-generated user profiles from Facebook and Instagram following public backlash regarding their authenticity. Users discovered these profiles, which claimed various personal stories and identities, often accompanied by AI-generated images that contained noticeable errors.
The controversy escalated after Connor Hayes, Meta's VP for generative AI, discussed the company's vision of creating artificial personas on social media. This sparked alarm among users when it became clear that Meta was already experimenting with these synthetic profiles.
Ben Decker, CEO of Memetica, highlighted that spammers often exploit new technologies, suggesting that Meta's algorithms could be manipulated to promote these AI accounts. One prominent AI persona, named 'Liv,' identified as a Black queer mother yet acknowledged that her creators were predominantly white, raising ethical concerns about representation.
In response to the uproar, Meta removed the accounts, stating they were part of an early experiment. However, skepticism remains regarding the potential for deception and emotional manipulation through AI-driven personas.
As Meta continues to explore AI features, critics warn that without robust safeguards, the risk of amplifying false narratives increases, potentially undermining user trust across social platforms.